As Pías Bridge
A vital bridge connecting Ferrol and Fene, offering industrial views and a landmark on the Camino Portugués.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See local fishermen at work
As Pías Bridge
Best Time
See local fishermen at work
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital bridge connecting Ferrol and Fene, offering industrial views and a landmark on the Camino Portugués.
"Essential for locals and pilgrims, but bring a flashlight for evening strolls due to limited lighting."
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Essential for evening walks as some areas of the bridge lack lighting. :flashlight:
🚶 Camino Portuguese Route
If on the Camino, expect a ~6km detour after Redondela. Choose steeper or longer paths. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Estuary Views
Along the bridge
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Ferrol estuary and the shipyards, a picturesque backdrop for any visit.
Historical Significance
The bridge itself
Witness a structure impacted by the Discoverer Enterprise incident and expanded to accommodate modern traffic.
Fishermen's Morning Spot
Bridge approaches
Observe local fishermen at work, especially in the early morning, adding a touch of local life to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the As Pías Bridge
Camino Portuguese Detour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Essential for evening walks as some areas of the bridge lack lighting. :flashlight:
🚶 Camino Portuguese Route
If on the Camino, expect a ~6km detour after Redondela. Choose steeper or longer paths. :hiking_boot:
🚢 Shipyard Views
Enjoy the industrial backdrop of the shipyards against the estuary. :ship:
🎣 Observe Local Fishermen
Early mornings offer a glimpse into local fishing culture. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Essential for evening walks as some areas of the bridge lack lighting. :flashlight:
🚶 Camino Portuguese Route
If on the Camino, expect a ~6km detour after Redondela. Choose steeper or longer paths. :hiking_boot:
🚢 Shipyard Views
Enjoy the industrial backdrop of the shipyards against the estuary. :ship:
🎣 Observe Local Fishermen
Early mornings offer a glimpse into local fishing culture. :fishingpoleand_வத:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
As Pías Bridge is a functional crossing with notable historical significance, particularly its role in the Discoverer Enterprise incident and its expansion. Visitors appreciate the panoramic views of the Ferrol estuary and shipyards, and its status as a waypoint on the Camino Portugués. However, concerns are raised about the lack of lighting on certain sections at night, making evening walks potentially hazardous.
"Ok"
Francisco Iglesias Cordero
"Puente de las Pilas, a promenade where you have to carry a flashlight to walk at night, as the main entrance to this city has been out for five or more years. The main entrance to this city, and no one from the city council bothers to do anything about it. It's shameful for Ferrol residents and tourists that it's in this state, because they haven't installed light bulbs or repaired the fault. There are many of us who express our opinion."
Ramon Loureiro Gonzalez
"A bridge that was familiar to many Spaniards when the Discoverer Enterprise, then the largest drilling platform in the world, was launched. This happened on January 13, 1998, when a major storm brought heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 170 km/h, causing the platform to move from the shipyard to the Das Pías Bridge (Fene-Ferrol). This bridge is frequently used by people living in towns near Ferrol and vice versa. It's also used by fishermen, which you can see especially early in the morning. It's always nice to pass by places with such beautiful views of the Ferrol estuary and the shipyards in the background."
Jesús Vila
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The As Pías Bridge is a key transportation route connecting Ferrol and Fene. It's accessible by car and is a common point on the Camino Portuguese. If you're arriving by public transport, check local bus routes serving Ferrol and Fene.
Yes, the As Pías Bridge is a landmark on the Camino Portugués. Pilgrims often pass over it about 6km after Redondela, heading towards Pontevedra.
Walking or cycling across the bridge offers the best views of the Ferrol estuary and the shipyards. Consider an early morning visit to see local fishermen.
Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check for designated parking areas in Ferrol or Fene before heading to the bridge, especially during peak times.
While possible, it's recommended to bring a flashlight as some sections of the bridge may not be well-lit at night.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, As Pías Bridge is a public infrastructure and does not have an entrance fee. You can cross it freely at any time.
As a public bridge, As Pías Bridge is open 24/7. However, visibility can be an issue at night due to limited lighting in certain areas.
No booking is required as there is no admission fee or specific entry process for the bridge itself.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visitors. However, standard traffic rules apply, and it's important to be mindful of vehicles when walking or cycling.
Yes, photography is permitted. The bridge offers scenic views of the estuary and shipyards, making it a good spot for photos.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the panoramic views of the Ferrol estuary and the Astano shipyards. You can also observe local fishermen, especially in the early morning.
The bridge has a paved surface, but the condition can vary. Some sections might have gaps or unevenness, so caution is advised for wheelchairs and strollers.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to walk the length of the bridge. Sturdy footwear is also advisable due to potential uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Amenities directly on the bridge are limited. You'll find more facilities in the nearby towns of Ferrol and Fene. It's best to plan accordingly.
Crossing the bridge can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes on foot, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the views.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the expansive views of the Ferrol estuary, the industrial landscape of the shipyards, and the bridge's architecture. Early mornings offer soft light and potential fog.
Early mornings provide beautiful light and a chance to see fishermen. Late afternoons can also offer good lighting for landscape shots.
Try framing shots that include both the bridge and the shipyard structures. Looking towards the estuary from either end of the bridge also provides stunning perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be good for details of the shipyards. Don't forget a tripod if you plan for low-light shots. :camerawithflash:
Drone regulations vary by location. It's essential to check local aviation authorities and be aware of any restricted airspace, especially near industrial areas like shipyards.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the bridge itself is a functional crossing, the surrounding areas in Ferrol and Fene offer more traditional family attractions. Consider combining a walk across the bridge with a visit to a local park or museum in either town for a more rounded family outing. The historical context of the bridge, including the Discoverer Enterprise incident, can also be an engaging story for older children.
🚶 Pilgrims on the Camino Portugués
Be prepared for the bridge's functional nature; it's a busy road. While the views of the estuary and shipyards are interesting, the primary focus for pilgrims is the onward journey. Ensure you have adequate footwear and are aware of your surroundings as you cross. The bridge itself doesn't offer amenities, so make sure you have water and snacks before you reach it.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the vastness of the estuary and the bridge's span. Telephoto lenses can be useful for isolating details within the shipyards. Be aware of the lighting conditions, especially if venturing out at dawn or dusk, and consider bringing a tripod for sharper, low-light shots. The presence of fishermen in the early morning can add a dynamic human element to your compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bridge's History and Evolution
The bridge's construction also had to contend with the unique conditions of the Ferrol estuary. The muddy bottom meant that the filling sections of the bridge required periodic resurfacing over the years to maintain their integrity. This ongoing maintenance highlights the engineering challenges faced in building and sustaining infrastructure in such environments. Today, the bridge remains a vital artery for local commuters and a point of interest for its historical and industrial context.
For those traveling the Camino Portugués, the bridge serves as a significant waypoint. It's located approximately 6 kilometers after Redondela, guiding pilgrims towards Pontevedra. Travelers on the Camino often note that while there are two paths leading to and from the bridge, one is shorter but steeper, while the other is longer. Both routes ultimately converge, offering a choice based on personal preference for incline and distance.
Navigating the Bridge: Practicalities and Tips
The bridge is a functional piece of infrastructure, and while it offers scenic views, visitors should be aware of its primary purpose. It's a busy route for local traffic, so pedestrians and cyclists should remain vigilant. The views of the Ferrol estuary and the adjacent shipyards are a significant draw, providing a unique industrial-maritime landscape. Early mornings are particularly noted for the presence of local fishermen, adding a dynamic element to the scenery.
For pilgrims on the Camino Portugués, the bridge is a familiar landmark. The choice between a steeper, shorter path or a longer, gentler route is a common discussion point among travelers. Regardless of the chosen path, the bridge represents a point of passage and connection within the pilgrimage route.
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